Scrawny to Brawny: The Complete Guide to Building Muscle the Natural Way

Scrawny to Brawny: The Complete Guide to Building Muscle the Natural Way
Average customer rating:

A Heavyweight Among Bodybuilding Books

Great Book

Excellent book!

It's great!

DISAPPOINTED WITH THE NUTRITIONAL SECTIONS

Scrawny to Brawny: The Complete Guide to Building Muscle the Natural Way
Michael Mejia , and John Berardi
Manufacturer: Rodale Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
Bodybuilding & Weight Training | Training | Sports | Subjects | Books
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Accessories:

Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor

ASIN: 1594860882
Release Date: 2005-03-24

Book Description

A state-of-the-art weight-lifting and nutritional blueprint for "skinny" guys who want to pack on muscleLet's face it, naturally skinny guys are at a distinct genetic disadvantage when it comes to building muscle mass. But with the proper advice, these "hardgainers" definitely can realize their fitness goals. In Scrawny to Brawny, the authors draw on their years of practical experience as private strength and nutrition coaches to provide hardgainers with:o A progressive, state-of-the-art program that optimizes results with shorter, less frequent workouts that maximize compound exerciseso A unique, action-based perspective on nutrition that shows how to prepare quick muscle-building meals and snacks-and how to take advantage of several critical times in the day when muscle growth can be stimulated by food intakeo Vital information on how to identify and fix any weak links in their physiques that may be precursors to injuryDesigned not only for frustrated adult hardgainers but also-with its strong anti-steroid message-a terrific book for the large teen market, Scrawny to Brawny fills a significant gap in the weight-lifting arsenal.

Customer Reviews:

A Heavyweight Among Bodybuilding Books.......2007-10-02

As a trainer, I like reviewing weightlifting books and found this one to be most interesting. First of all, the book is written very well, interjecting humor that makes it hard to put the book down. Having said that, however, I did find it a tad bit disorganized at times- and I say that mainly because I had to flip around a bit here and there.

Anyway, the book is divided into two basic parts. The first is training to gain, which discusses the four part training phases. They're much too detailed to go into but they do give the reader a set path to follow that is well laid out. Part two? That would be "need to feed" which is the diet and eating part. Here again, its very detailed but emphasizes the reader getting enough calories- which the book says is absolutely essential to packing on the muscle.

Other goodies are interspersed throughout the book, such as discussions of determining what body type you are and determining your calorie needs. All in all, the book has a fun writing style and is clearly based on a certain amount of research that is cited here and there to back up its claims. Also recommend Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff for weightlifters struggling with a torn cuff or shoulder pain.

Great Book.......2007-09-29

well... i got this book fot a week now and i havnt started my program yet...
i was (so far ) taking all my tests for personal plan... and i really cant say i ever read like this before...
i did a lot of things in my life trying to improve my body shape... nothing happend yet..
1 thing i can deffenetly say about this book.
really got me motivated to start all again. this time with a helthier aproach...
they (the book writers) also got a web that u can sing on to if u would like to get more trainning routins
the book is covering a 4 month training program...
i would say that if u feel like a change in your life(even just mental) - BUY IT!

Excellent book!.......2007-09-23

If you always been the skinny guy who wanted muscles this is the book for you great information easy to read, guidelines are easy to follow to.

It's great!.......2007-08-15

This book explains not just the what, but the why. It's full of the science behind the workouts, which makes the book fascinating as well as helpful.

DISAPPOINTED WITH THE NUTRITIONAL SECTIONS.......2007-07-16

I've given scrawny to brawny a 5 star rating for the muscle building info. and the weight lifting workout plans. I purchased this book about 2 weeks ago. I should have known it would contain about 95.5% weight lifting info. Building bigger muscles was not my reason for purchasing this book. Nothing wrong with that of course. As a female I'm concerned with developing a fuller, better looking figure through lean body mass weight gain. I thought I'd find enough of the weight gain answers I needed in scrawny to brawny. I didn't. This book like other bodybuilding books I've got does include a comprehensive section on various weight lifting exercises, including the compound, supposedly "mass building" exercises such as the deadlifts and barbell squats. The best mass building exercise I'm aware of for a body that wants to stay skinny (such as mine) is to consume 5 to 8,000 calories a day at least 5 days a week, even on non-exercise days from 6 to 12 months. The deadlifts and barbell squats are reported to cause the body to release more growth horomone. As one guy puts it, "you gotta eat to get big." I've never seen humongous size muscles on a skinny body anyway. And personally I don't have to exercise to end up with a toothpick body. For me the scrawny to brawny book has been a bit disappointing in regards to the nutritional information. It's a great book to add to your bodybuilding library if you're interested in re-reading more of the same information on the slow/fast twitch muscle fibers and the rest of the rehashed and re-worded comments you'll find in most of the other body building books. I'm not a doctor or a nutritionist. But I believe that it will take a big body to sprout big muscles any day.

The weight loss market is over-saturated with information and products. There's barely any worthwhile information or products for those of us who are struggling to maintain or to gain a decent amount of lean body mass weight. Muscles or no muscles. I have placed an order for "Dr. Reuben's Quick Weight Gain Program (tm):Safe, Easy Weight Gain For Every Age And Situation." I'll worry about the body fat and toning later. I just want to first escape from a toothpick body ASAP.

Building the Classic Physique: The Natural Way

Average customer rating:

Training Book for any age group
A find for fans of Reeves
The Best Book I Ever Bought!
for the book, not the price
Muscle World still mourning over Steve Reeves

Building the Classic Physique: The Natural Way
Steve Reeves , John Little , and Armand Tanny
Manufacturer: Little Wolf Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1885096100

Customer Reviews:

Training Book for any age group.......2007-02-17

I read all type of training and fitness books and this one is a classic.It is timeless, if you're 21 or 58 (which I am) you can use the information and the routines to get where you want to go providing you do the work. When you view the pictures of Steve you will say I would like to look like that. Broad shoulders, big chest, very tampered waist, good legs, symmetry , his physique truly is a classic that any man would like to have. Routines, working out around injuries, nutrition, power walking ,
and many frequently asked questions all of us have. After you buy and read the book put it up for sale on Amazon and recoup your investment .
You will be glad you obtained the book ,the Best I've read... you'll see!

A find for fans of Reeves.......2006-12-31

Too bad this great book is out of print, and therefore so expensive. Fans of classical bodybuilding will admire the great photographs of Steve in his prime, and will find much to admire in this practical, logical, and inspirational guide to getting in shape. Hardcore enthusiasts and fans of monsters like Dorian Yates may think the approach (and Reeves' physique) almost quaint, but the author's proportions were classical and his look is still stunningly impressive: what used to be considered in saner times "the Olympic Ideal". The book is worth a look, if you can find it, and bound to be a collector's item very soon.

The Best Book I Ever Bought!.......2006-07-27

Steve Reeves is certainly The Greatest Bodybuilder of All Time! His size, definition, and symmetry define "The Classic Physique" better than any words could. Yet, this book does tell how he did it, his methods, routines, and more. Steve Reeves was much more than the first Hercules ever; he was one of the most genuine, real, and authentically strong men in history and reading this book has shown me the greatest idol a boy, middle-aged guy, or older man could ever have. A million "thank you's" to The Greatest Bodybuilder of All Time, and a great man unequaled, Steve Reeves.

for the book, not the price.......2005-07-14

If you're a collector, perhaps $51+ (Oops! It's up to $149.99!), is ok for the first, (1995), version of this book, but for only =$19.95=, the 1998 version, (everything here plus more), is still available. *Natural Bodybuilders Please Note*: Reeves lifetime -top- weight was only 214, (at 6'1"). When he was wasn't training he -lost- weight, as he was health oriented, not into 'bulking up'. In the Hercules movies he weighed 210, and who can doubt his powerful look at what would nowadays be considered too skinny to even compete as a pro? In his non-Hercules-type movies, Reeves weighed 190, and still had an incredible muscular, athletic look; surely a much better goal for young trainees to aspire to.

Muscle World still mourning over Steve Reeves.......2005-05-02

Although it has now been five years since the passing of Hercules Steve Reeves, it appears as though the bodybuilding world is still mourning the loss of this muscle-god. I don't think that anyone has made the impact that Steve Reeves has nor will anyone ever do it again.

Rest in peace Mr. Reeves!

Average customer rating:

Very Basic
Usefull and informative
Good book-Better training advice in other books
Achieve Your Goals
one of the best bodybulding books

Natural Bodybuilding
John Hansen
Manufacturer: Human Kinetics Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

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Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor

ASIN: 0736053468

Book Description

Get better and bigger results than you ever thought possible without using illicit or unhealthy drugs. Natural Bodybuilding provides the best training and nutrition prescription available for gaining mass and defining muscles the healthy way.

Detailed programs and workouts, specific techniques for particular lifts, proven dietary guidelines, a weeklong precompetition plan, and true inspirational success stories will help you reach your potential. See what great results you can achieve without incurring the expense and physical toll of a chemically crafted body.

IRONMAN columnist and champion natural bodybuilder John Hansen covers every facet, from the gym to the training table to the competitive stage. Get bigger the right way, with Natural Bodybuilding.

Customer Reviews:

Very Basic.......2007-10-10

This book is too basic for an intermediate or advanced bodybuilder. It is a good read for a newbie however.

Usefull and informative.......2007-08-23

I am beginner, 40. I found this book usefull and informative on training exersises, routines and nutritions. Following the suggestions I get constant size increase. Each exersise is well described with safety suggestions and tips on effectivness; one exeption is "power cleans" is mentioned for shoulder routine but I could not find its descriptions so far. Multiple sample routines are well thought and work for me. In nutrition section I found informative how protein, carbs, fats work together. Body types are well described. Supplements are included in the book. Please consider that this is my first book on this subject.

Good book-Better training advice in other books.......2007-08-22

It is a good book to add to your library. I found the contest preparation to be the best part of the book and worth the cost of the book. The training advice is standard and I feel there is better in other books such Body Sculpting Bible and Extreme Muscle Enhancement.

Achieve Your Goals.......2007-04-10

The natural way to maximize your muscle mass and minimize fat is right at your fingertips in this helpful guide. Everything from exercise to contest preparation is included.

one of the best bodybulding books.......2007-02-03

If you are looking for a book to help you achieve your bodybuilding goals naturally than this book is it. Cover everything from exercise, nution to contest prep. Must have!!!

Average customer rating:

The Real Deal
Rational Fitness
Thoughtful advice on creating a healthy lifestyle

Natural Fitness
Bob Jackson-Paris
Manufacturer: Grand Central Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0446670294

Customer Reviews:

The Real Deal.......2003-10-06

Because he was a champion bodybuilder, Paris begins, he's the ideal fitness book author. While sometimes championship bodybuilders go on to author terrible books, Paris has given us a great book with Natural Fitness. Taking a mind-body, rational approach to structuring change, the book helps you develop a commitment to your fitness habit by first exploring your priorities and reasons underlying why you work out, and then developing a sound, effective exercise program of weights and cardiovascular training. If you are able to commit to going to going to a gym in addition to doing regular aerobic exercise, this book will give you a good start. The list of exercises is more than enough for a beginner, but lacks the large-body muscle lifts any athlete will know, such as power cleans, deadlifts, and push presses. These more challenging (and therefore very effective, if somewhat harder to teach) exercises never make it into this book, which I wish had more exercises and less philosophy. People into the emerging whole-food, vegetarian/macrobiotic trend in nutrition might take exception to the nutritionally adaequate somewhat pedestrian diet suggestions, which abound with insipid dishes like baked potato, nonfat cottage cheese, cauliflower and spaghetti sauce (for more tasty healthful meals consider supplementing this book with the Moosewood Low-Fat Favorites Cookbook). Despite its shortcomings this is a fine book you can use to change your body and build a lifelong, healthful habit of gym and aerobic exercise.

Rational Fitness.......2001-06-17

Since purchasing Bob Paris' book "Natural Fitness" about 10 weeks ago, I have gone through a lot of changes. I made progress toward my weight loss goal of 35 pounds (25 down, 10 to go) I totally changed my diet, built some muscle, and began to look inside to see the things that were driving me on and off a healthy lifestyle. This is what the book is all about: the whole packsage. Paris makes a point of saying that physical health without corresponding progress in mind, emotions, and spirit is a hollow shell. He also asks the reader to delve into his or her motives for fitness in the first place and see what lurks below the surface. It has been an awesome experience because I have been a "hot and cold" fitness buff forever. Well, I'm 47 now, and the "cold" side could have dire consequences for me, so I bought the book. I am so glad I did. This book has everything a person can need to change from a sedentary lifestyle to an active one. It offers tips on the whole person, food, meals, exercises, routines, etc... and challenges our (my) tendency to look for quick fixes for long term problems. This book is real. It is honest and detailed. It has gotten me so stoked that I'm going to buy Paris' "Flawless", the 10 week phyique transformation manual. I feel I'm ready for that one because "Natural Fitness" has prepared me physically and mentally.

Thoughtful advice on creating a healthy lifestyle.......1999-06-12

This book focuses on introspection and examining your own goals and reasons for becoming fit. Motivation and a balanced approach toward a maintainable fittness program are stressed. It has a slightly philosophical tone, if you like that kind of thing (which I do). After reading this book and applying some of the ideas, I now bike to work and home (30 mi) 3 times a week, I lift weights 3 times a week, and on weekends ... mountain biking and hiking! I have lost 20 pounds, and I feel better then I have in years.

MuscleNOW Bodybuilding Program - Learn How to Build Muscle and Lose Weight (Fat) Without Supplements and Drugs! (IncrediBody)

Average customer rating:

Great
Honest Book - Great Content - Real Results

MuscleNOW Bodybuilding Program - Learn How to Build Muscle and Lose Weight (Fat) Without Supplements and Drugs! (IncrediBody)

Manufacturer: IncrediBody
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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Product Description

Confused about muscle building or fat loss? The MuscleNOW program teaches you exactly how to build muscle and/or lose body fat without potentially hazardous supplements or drugs. Whether you are a beginner or advanced trainer, the program will guide you step-by-step through the proper diet and exercise methods to accomplish your goals. It outlines specific workout routines and diet plans to follow. No more gimmicks -- learn to eat and train for dramatic progress.

Customer Reviews:

Great.......2007-05-19

Though i just purchased this book, i feel that i've found the catalyst of my muscle buliding desire. At first i was skepticalb/c the of how skinny this book was( when purchasing i thought it would be a thick book), but after reading every word in this book I became almost an expert on how to adjust my bodybuliding techniques and eating habits. I learned more from this book than any trainer, bodybuilding encylopedia...etc. This guy doesn't waste your time. He gets right down to the nitty gritty and puts it all out there for you to absorb. He answers all your quesitons to the fullest in the book and when you contact him via e-mail. He provides you with everything you need to succeed in your goals of either shedding fat or building muscle. The eating habits is key and he breaks down everything for you in that section all the way and every idea he throws out he backs it up with logical and credabile facts. Can't wait to see my results:-D

Honest Book - Great Content - Real Results.......2006-10-16

I bought this book quite some time ago, but only followed it to the tee in 2003. Honestly, I can say that it delivers if you follow each and every easy to understand instruction in it.

Francesco Castano is a natural bodybuilder, and when I say natural... this means he only takes into his system REAL food. No supplements, no drugs, and above all... NO BULL SH#$!

I really2 reccommend this book for both... people who want to lose weight... and also people who want to gain serious NATURAL muscle :)

Modern Bodybuilding: The Natural Way to Health and Strength (The Skills of the Game)

Average customer rating:

I Was Surprised. I Liked This Book a Lot.

Modern Bodybuilding: The Natural Way to Health and Strength (The Skills of the Game)
Eddie Ferrie , and Dennis Oakes
Manufacturer: Crowood Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Bodybuilding & Weight Training | Training | Sports | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1861260873

Book Description

Bodybuilding is one of the most effective ways to improve health, fitness, and appearance. This comprehensive manual features more than 100 exercises, illustrated with 150 photos. 160 pp 6 1/2 x 9 1/2 150 b/w photos

Customer Reviews:

I Was Surprised. I Liked This Book a Lot........2001-07-08

I have a lot of bodybuilding books. They're pretty much all flawed in one way or another. The best you can hope for is that they're not outrageously incorrect or misleading. I expected no more from this book...and yet, I was pleasantly surprised. It's written by a British team: Eddie Ferrie, a martial artist, and Dennis Oakes, a bodybuilding title holder. Ferrie & Oakes have come up with a solid how-to book on bodybuilding. What's surprising is that they do it without hype, with some humility, and with good structure, editing, and production values. This, as mentioned, is no small thing in the world of bodybuilding books. Specifically, they discuss how to get started bodybuilding, and they keep it real...no lifestyle crud that you and I will never experience. They also discuss specific excercises and diet. The instructional photos were posed by Oakes and--apparently--shot by Ferrie, and they're pretty darn good (another surprise). The book also examines competition, and shows us Oakes competing. It's a refreshing examination without all the media-tie-in hype that surrounds most other discussions of bodybuilding competition. Lastly, Ferrie & Oakes get personal about their experiences with bodybuilding. Sometimes this personal stuff can be over-the-top self-promotion, but these guys come aross as regular Joes. Ferrie talks about his lifelong battle with weight gain, and how bodybuilding helped him. He also discusses the benefits he gained with bodybuilding over some nagging physical pain. Oakes talks in very human terms about his competitions. I especially enjoyed his comments on his meeting the world champion bodybuilder Dorian Yates. It was humble and down-to-earth. It just seemed real to me. Novice and intermediate bodybuilders can gain much insight from one specific point about the book: It shows Oakes in pre-contest and contest condition. It's pretty rare to see that these days. Most bodybuilding books only show bodybuilders cut-up for a show. Those interested should note how Oakes' muscle mass is relatively stable, but that his body fat percentage declines dramatically prior to a contest. It's an eye-opener, and goes to show that bodybuilding is probably half diet. Anyway, a good solid book and highly recommended.

Ironman's Ultimate Guide to Natural Bodybuilding

Average customer rating:

Ironman mag readers avoid.
Some Interesting Articles and Approaches To "Somewhat Natural" Bodybuilding
Junk
Not Impressed
GOOD BOOK FOR NATURAL BODYBUILDERS

Ironman's Ultimate Guide to Natural Bodybuilding
Ironman Magazine
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Bodybuilding & Weight Training | Training | Sports | Subjects | Books

General | Training | Sports | Subjects | Books

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The New Encyclopedia of Modern Bodybuilding : The Bible of Bodybuilding, Fully Updated and Revised

ASIN: 0809228149

Book Description

Continuously published since 1936, Ironman is the dean of bodybuilding magazines. It has been showcasing every major bodybuilder, training technique, scientific advance, as well as other aspects of the iron game, longer than any other bodybuilding magazine. With articles by and photos of the greatest names in the sport, the Ironman archives represent the best of bodybuilding. This definitive, information-packed volume contains Ironman's best information on natural bodybuilding, diet, and nutrition. Ironman's Ultimate Guide to Bodybuilding Nutrition contains up-to-date bodybuilder-tested information on how you can achieve maximum results naturally. This fully illustrated book is for natural bodybuilders who want to attain a massive, ripped physique without using dangerous drugs and synthetic hormones. The routines, tricks, and secrets provided are designed by and for natural bodybuilders and are used by top natural champions. Included is complete information on:

Natural arm training
Natural leg training
Natural back training
Natural shoulder training
Natural chest training
Drug-free spiritual, emotional, and physical growth
Scientific bodybuilding techniques
Mass-building hardgainer routines
Power-mass training workouts
Natural fat-burning workouts

An authoritative resource, Ironman's Ultimate Guide to Natural Bodybuilding contains the step-by-step methods used by champion bodybuilders and top bodybulding researchers. Discover the gold mine of information on natural bodybuilding, from the secrets of Team Universe champions to the tips and techniques of natural champion Skip La Cour, to the science of building big muscles--fast! Beginners and seasoned bodybuilders alike will pack on more muscle mass than ever before by using the tried and true information revealed in this book by experts who have spent decades examining every technique of bodybuilding. Editor Peter Sisco is the author or coauthor of numerous fitness and bodybuilding books, including Ironman's Ultimate Bodybuilding Encyclopedia, Ironman's Ultimate Guide to Building Muscle Mass, Ironman's Ultimate Guide to Bodybuilding Nutrition, Power Factor Training, Power Factor Specialization: Chest & Arms, Power Factor Specialization: Shoulders & Back, Power Factor Specialization: Abs & Legs, and Static Contraction Training.

Customer Reviews:

Ironman mag readers avoid........2007-02-10

Not a bad book on natural bodybuilding but if you have read ironman magazine this book is really nothing new. And it contains a lot of picture of bodybuilders that are oviously not natural.

Some Interesting Articles and Approaches To "Somewhat Natural" Bodybuilding.......2006-09-04

I bought this book a few weeks ago and have gone through the majority of it already. I was looking for something that was more in line with how I train, that is without drugs.

I'm not even remotely a competitive bodybuilder and bodybuilding training is something I do in addition to doing other physical disciplines like Pilates and Yoga (which I do every day including the days I hit the weights), so my focus is on building strength and some mass, but health is the most important bottom line for me so using any types of bodybuilding drugs isn't even something I'd consider. I think the bodybuilders that use drugs are making a mockery of what bodybuilding should be, that is it should be a reflection of a healthy lifestyle rather than a bunch of "buffed up" and "Juiced up" guys who "look" fit and healthy when in truth they are poisoning themselves with all sorts of illegal and life threatening substances.

Anyway, regarding the book:)

The good point is that there is a lot of food for thought on training without the use of extreme drugs. There are very interesting articles about trying to induce the body to use it's natural resources to create muscle mass by triggering it through various means. I also enjoyed some of the chapters that featured various "natural" bodybuilders. Whether they are completely natural or not, these guys still look human compared to the freaks out there (in a large part thanks to the IFBB whimping out and failing to test bodybuilders all these years not to mention all the press given to the juicers)

The less good point is the constant mention of various means of "supplements" which may not be as extreme as some the chemical substances out there, but these still seem a far cry from what I consider to be truly natural bodybuilding.

To me, true natural bodybuilding should focus of course on training and definitely on nutrition, including supplements. However, the types of supplements that I would consider really natural would still be very much food based. Things like soy protein, whey proteins etc. I don't know enough about creatine to know if that should be in the same category as whey and soy. Of course vitamins and minerals would fit into this category.

But so many of the things mentioned such as "cort block" and the like seem to be in an in between realm between what I consider natural and the types of insane staks many of the modern bodybuilders are obviously on. For anyone to think those IFBB bodybuilders aren't taking loads of drugs is an insult to anyone who has a clue about what a body can naturally look like.

Still, all that being said, I'm glad I purchased this Ironman book because at least most of the guys in the book do look considerably more human than the guys who are obviously juicing and that was a relief.

Also, I think the fact that natural bodybuilders have to learn not to overtrain is a critical point that I wish I learned many years ago back in my late twenties/early thirties when I was definitely pushing myself into an overtraining zone. Back then I was reading articles and books that had routines that really only are effective if you are using drugs. A natural bodybuilder couldn't recover using those programs and therefore overtraining was inevitable. Of course they never mentioned the fact that drugs were a pre-requisite for those programs.

I am a lot wiser thanks to books like this one and I'm not beating myself up to the point where I can't recover. Plus at 46 years old, I need to be especially careful about letting my body recover after training.

So, if you're looking for a book that is a welcome relief compared to much of what is out there, yet one that still touches upon the many new supplements being used by what are considered natural bodybuilders, then you might really find this book useful.

Junk.......2005-03-20

I would have thought that "Natural Bodybuilding" means bodybuilding without chemicals, including exotic supplements. But various participants in this book describe substantial supplement routines, including one fellow who says he took (at date of writing) androstenedione and a staggering 453 grams of protein daily(!!!). Another contributor describes Cort-Bloc; yet another talks about taking effervescent creatine, insulin mimickers, androgen precursors, HMB, etc. This is "Natural"???

Too much of the bodybuilding industry rides on profits made from pitching exotic substances whose long-term effects on human beings is unknown. The hard reality is that truly natural bodybuilding will not make you look like the full-time fitness models (who always look vaguely ill to me), unless you have incredible genetic gifts.

Save your money.

Not Impressed.......2001-11-16

I take exception with the claim that: "Continuously published since 1936, Ironman is the dean of bodybuilding magazines. It has been showcasing every major bodybuilder, training technique, scientific advance, as well as other aspects of the iron game, longer than any other bodybuilding magazine."

That statement would be correct if the writer was referring to the old "Iron Man" magazine, edited by Perry and Mabel Rader, from Nebraska. It was a tremedous resource for accurate and helpful training advice, without the Hoffman/Weider bias. It introduced the writings of Arthur Jones and other notables, as well as the supplements of Rheo Blair. However, for whatever reason (probably the lack of advertising) it went under. The new Iron Man magazine, from which this book usurps it's name, is no more connected to the orginal, than the resurrected Muscular Development is to the old York publication. They appear to be more showcases for steroid/hormone users; as well as supplement and equipment catalogs, than sources of helpful information.

I would be more interested in a reprint of Vince Gironda's "Unleashing the Wild Physique," or Steve Reeves "Building the Classic Physique."

GOOD BOOK FOR NATURAL BODYBUILDERS.......2000-10-05

THIS BOOK HAD SOME VERY GOOD BASIC INFORMATION ON TRAINING, NUTRITION AND SUPPLEMENTATION. THE INFORMATION WAS VERY UP TO DATE. WHAT I ALSO PARTICULARLY LIKED ABOUT THE BOOK WAS ITS PROFILES OF SOME OF THE NATURAL BODYBUILDERS OF TEAM UNIVERSE. IT ALSO PROFILED SOME BODYBUILDERS WHO AVERAGE PEOPLE CAN RELATE TO. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR THE EXTREME IN BODYBUILDING WITH THE USE OF DRUGS OBVIOUS BUT UNSPOKEN,LOOK ELSEWHERE. BUT IF YOU ARE INTO BODYBUILDING NATURALLY THIS IS "THE BOOK" FOR YOU.

Creatine and Other Natural Muscle Boosters: Everything You Need to Know About America's Bestselling Muscle-Enhancing Supplements

Average customer rating:

If you don't know this is the book that you need
Creatine: Explained

Creatine and Other Natural Muscle Boosters: Everything You Need to Know About America's Bestselling Muscle-Enhancing Supplements
Terry Malloy
Manufacturer: Dell
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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Accessories:

Airborne Effervescent Health Formula, Original Orange, 10 Tablets (Pack of 3)
Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor
RESPeRATE Blood Pressure Lowering Device

ASIN: 0440235553
Release Date: 1999-12-01

Book Description

The pros, the cons, the facts
The most common side effects
How to use them safely and effectively for maximum results

Get the facts on the hottest supplements on the market for enhancing athletic performance.

A muscle-building nutrient found in the human body, creatine has become the clear winner in the sports nutrition supplement field. In fact, many professional athletes are using it. But what exactly are muscle-enhancing supplements--and how do they power up athletic performance? What are the dangers of these popular natural muscle boosters?

This comprehensive guide, written by Dr. Robert Monaco, a leading figure in sports medicine, and health writer Terry Malloy, separates fact from fiction, and explores the full range of proven benefits and potential drawbacks.
Discover:

How to use muscle enhancers safely
Why some muscle enhancers are banned
When creatine may not work
How to choose the right product at the right price
What parents need to know if their children are using these supplements
The facts on a wide variety of natural muscle boosters, including: glutamine, taurine, whey protein isolate, chromium, and pyruvate...and more!

Customer Reviews:

If you don't know this is the book that you need.......2000-05-10

Finally a book that explains how supplements work. Very easy to read, this book explains in detail how creatine works and how it should be used. There is more truthful supplementation information in this book than I have found in muscle magizines in the past three years. Anyone who wants to try supplements needs to read this book first to get an edge on companies who sell low grade products.

Creatine: Explained.......2000-04-24

This book was very informative about the good and bad effects of creatine and other muscle enhancers. I think that this is a good book for the serious or not too serious weight lifter. Very clear and straight to the point.

Supplements for Natural Body Building (Natural Health Guide) (Natural Health Guide)

Average customer rating:

Supplements for Natural Body Building (Natural Health Guide) (Natural Health Guide)
Zoltan Rona
Manufacturer: Alive Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Healthy | Special Diet | Cooking, Food & Wine | Subjects | Books

General | Nutrition | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Injuries & Rehabilitation | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Alternative Medicine | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Supplements | Alternative Medicine | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Bodybuilding & Weight Training | Training | Sports | Subjects | Books

General | Sports | Subjects | Books
Accessories:

RESPeRATE Blood Pressure Lowering Device
Airborne Effervescent Health Formula, Original Orange, 10 Tablets (Pack of 3)

ASIN: 1553120213

Product Description

Well-known natural health expert and medical doctor Zoltan Rona provides informtion about the ten most important supplements for bodybuilders~and indeed for anyone who wants to look and feel their healthy best without dangerous drugs. Learn how to gain muscle and power with an easy-to-follow program that utilizes protein, glutamine, arginine, a whole-foods diet and more. These safe and natural nutritional and herbal supplements can help you achieve a well-muscled physique whether you're competing or not. Includes a collection of recipes that provide the essential nutrients body builders need accompanied by full-color photos of mouth-watering meals.

Alpha Male : The Path to Hardcore Natural Bodybuilding

Average customer rating:

Motivation
Alpha Male is a great book and has different formats
Why buy a book?
Get it for free on his website?!
GOOD BOOK...ENJOYABLE STYLE!!!

Alpha Male : The Path to Hardcore Natural Bodybuilding
Sam Delucia
Manufacturer: William Delucia
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Exercise & Fitness | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

General | Health, Mind & Body | Subjects | Books

Bodybuilding & Weight Training | Training | Sports | Subjects | Books
Accessories:

Tanita BC533 Glass Innerscan Body Composition Monitor
Clif Bar Nutrition Bars, Crunchy Peanut Butter, 2.4-Ounce Bars (Pack of 12)

ASIN: 0970960107

Book Description

When something becomes too commercialized, as bodybuilding has, it loses some of its purity. The bodybuilding magazine and sports nutrition industry is a multi-billion dollar a year runaway freight train. For years, the bodybuilding magazines have instructed people how to train, what supplements to take, and given guidelines on creating a professional bodybuilder style body which in reality is unobtainable through natural means. With the growth of the internet, a growing counter-culture of natural bodybuilding (one without the aid of performance enhancing drugs) has grown steadily with the emergence of websites, discussion groups, and online magazines echoing the anthem of "Go Heavy or Go Home". These lifters take pride in their gains produced through blood, sweat, and tears. Advancements made without the hype of supplements and magazines. In today's age, people want truth not hype.

Alpha Male delivers on all this and more:

Uncover the truths of supplements and how effective they really are.

Learn how the bodybuilding corporate machine works to keep you an eternal customer.

Find the source of your own motivation and how to become the Alpha Male.

Discover how to pack on muscle naturally and devise your own Hardcore Natural workout. Discover how to eat for power without the use of supplements. Get the list of the top Hardcore Natural websites on the internet.

Customer Reviews:

Motivation.......2003-01-27

I enjoyed this book. It is a little overpriced...for 90 pages. But the content is good. The book is probably more motivational than anything else. It does tell the truth about the bodybuilding magazines but it also contains some diet information, a sample flexible workout routine, and a bit of humor. It is by no means the best book out there but it makes you want to get out there and pump iron. Any book that does that cannot be all bad. I really enjoyed the website so I bought the book. There is some overlap but the book is not just a copy of the website. I only wish he had included the beefs from the website which I enjoy reading. Anyhow the book is about natural bodybuilding and contains some information on the truth about several popular supplements. It is not a must have but the owner will not have anything to complain about except price.

Alpha Male is a great book and has different formats.......2002-10-23

I find it humorous when I see some of these reviews from readers who were upset that the book contained parts from the author's website. I'm grateful because I love the website. I actually look at the book as a companion to the website. The book does have original content! Especially helpful is the workout program the author put together. Since following the workout, I have put on quite a bit of muscle mass. The view of the book is a great message. Lift heavy, work hard. No BS. If you are leery of purchasing the paperback, you can also get the Adobe Acrobat version on the author's website for a lesser cost. Don't hesitate, the book and the message rocks! Go heavy or go home.

Why buy a book?.......2002-10-16

That is a verbatim copy of a website? I purchased the book because I found the website informative but the book is a some-what abbreviated version of the website. One does not need to pay [money] for a poorly-written 90 page book when all the information is available on the website. I don't care how motivational some people think the book is, they should get the same motivation from the website. ALL the information and workouts in the 'book' are available for free on numerous natural websites.I returned mine the same day. The author accuses the industry of being greedy and wanting our money. I find this "book" to be more of the same. Especially when the author has no real credentials. A person that eschues steroids but quotes Swartzeneger?

Get it for free on his website?!.......2002-10-07

This book is great. It will tell you basically everything you need to know about the weight game.

It will also (hopefully) help to dispel the myth of the musclemags for most new trainees.

However, the author gives away most of the information free on his website!

I read everything on his website in order to decide whether the book was worth buying. Based on the website, it is!!

Upon receiving the book I saw that not only was it not much different from the website - it actually was the website, word for word!

GOOD BOOK...ENJOYABLE STYLE!!!.......2002-08-15

In my naivete I used to perform those five-to-six-days-a-week workouts and 15 to 20 sets per bodypart in the magazines with nothing more than frequent colds and sickness and loss of strength. After reading ALPHA MALE I tried the abbreviated hard-core basic-exercise workouts, doing no more than three-days-a-week workouts. My gains have come at a stellar pace from following the outlined workouts and basic nutrition in this great book in a much shorter time. Mr. Delucia's straightforward style and honesty makes an interesting read. The supplement companies hold a monopoly which Delucia busts through all the hype and tells it like it is.

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